Buttons on the Samsung Galaxy S8 Explained

In this article we take a look at the different buttons on the Samsung Galaxy S8 and explain how they can be used to interact with the smartphone. In total, there are three main physical buttons on the S8 and they can solve multiple purposes.

Volume Rocker

By default, the volume rocker can be pressed in two different directions to either increase or decrease the volume. If you are in a call, whether it’s via mobile signal or online through a service such as Skype, the volume rocker will reduce call volume.

If you are playing a game, viewing a video or listening to audio such as music, the volume rocker will instead adjust the media volume. When you press the volume rocker, a pop-up will appear on screen and there will be a settings option on this pop-up which can be used to further define each volume setting for different usage cases.

Power Button

The power button is used for a few different things but it’s most basic use is to turn the Galaxy S8 on. By holding the power button, the Samsung Galaxy S8 will switch on. If your S8 is already on, holding the power button can be used to switch it off or restart the device. Pressing different buttons on the Galaxy S8 in combination with the power button can have different effects. For example, it can be used to activate a camera shortcut, take a screenshot or even enter debugging mode if the smartphone is switched off.

Home Button

The home button is in fact the same button as the power button. If your smartphone is turned on, pressing the power button will bring the Galaxy S8 back to the home screen. Double tapping the power button can also be set up for another function.

Fingerprint Sensor

The S8 also comes with a fingerprint sensor, but unlike other buttons on the Samsung Galaxy S8, this is not a physical feature on the device. Instead, the fingerprint sensor is built into the power button – this means you can switch your screen on and, if your fingerprint ID is set up, quickly get unlock your smartphone without any other interaction.